5 Fast Breakfasts That Boost Your Health

By Densie Webb for I love my kids & Completely YouWhen you’re busy (and who isn’t?), it’s tempting to take shortcuts — especially when it comes to the first meal of the day. But instead of sloughing off breakfast, start off on the right food and set the tone for a healthier day — every day. Here’s how:

Stay Slim MondaysOpting for fresh vegetables first thing in the morning ensures you’ll be more likely to get in the recommended 2 1/2 cups of daily servings to stay fit and healthy.Carrot Smoothie (2 servings)

2 cups carrot juice

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 cup vanilla yogurt

Pour all ingredients into a blender and blend until smoothie reaches desired consistency.Tough Teeth TuesdaysCombine the calcium cache of cheese with the phosphorus found in eggs, and you’ve served a wakeup call for strong bones and teeth.Breakfast Quesadilla (2 servings)

2 eggs

1/2 cup and 2 tablespoons light jalapeno cheddar cheese

Two 6-inch soft fat-free tortillas

1 tablespoon diced green pepper

1 tablespoon diced onion

Nonstick cooking spray

In a skillet, use nonstick cooking spray and prepare eggs with green peppers, onions and 1/2 cup cheese. Flip once; cook until done. Then heat tortillas in the microwave until warm (about 30 seconds). Layer a tortilla, egg mixture and tortilla with cheese on top. Cut into six pieces and enjoy.Heart Health WednesdaysEating oatmeal is a proven way to lower your cholesterol, but let’s face it: Pancakes sound much more tempting. Get the best of both.Oatmeal Pancakes

2 cups pancake baking mix

1/2 cup old-fashioned oats

2 tablespoons packed brown sugar

1 1/4 cups low-fat milk

2 eggs

Nonstick cooking spray

Grease griddle with cooking spray and heat to 375 F. In medium bowl, use a spoon to stir all pancake ingredients until blended. For each pancake, pour 1/4 cup batter onto hot griddle. Cook until edges are dry. Turn and cook other side until golden.Brain Boost ThursdaysBlueberries pack a huge antioxidant punch to help keep your mind nimble.Blueberry Waffle Sandwich (3 servings)